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SUN Life Asia Health Index report and new wellness product campaign

Last August, 2016, Sun Life Financial Asia studied the health trends in Asia through an Ipsos survey from around 4000 Asian respondents aged 25 to 60 and with middle class incomes. They came from Mainland China, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam and were interviewed online about their attitudes towards healthy and active living, their health concerns for the future and expectations on access to healthcare.

Last year's SUN Life Financial Asia Health Index reports revealed that from the respondents in the Philippines, who are from Manila, Cebu and Davao, 50% male & 50% female; 61% is not engaging in any regular activity and that made the Philippines on top of the list from Asia.

The study proved that "Generation O" still exists. This is the population that is composed of individuals who are struggling with their health goals, who are usually overworked, overweight and overwhelmed individuals.

With today's busy lifestyle, Filipinos tend to forget their health goals. But what really are the barriers to a healthy living according to the respondents? 57% of Filipinos blamed it on their lack of time due to work, 47% admitted that they lack personal motivation, also 47% said it's "distraction of modern life" that stops them from engaging in physical activities. Other key barriers named were cost (45%) and the lack of accessible venues for sports and recreation (36%).

While the Asia Health Index showed negative results about Filipinos' lifestyle nowadays, it also showed how positive Filipinos are towards their health. The Philippines scored the highest in the recently conducted study, garnering a score of 89%. Respondents from the Philippines were the most positive in Asia when it comes to emotional health and physical health.

"With all the things that demand our time and attention, it's usually our health that suffers because it's relegated to the least of our priorities. However, this should not be the case," Sun Life President and CEO Riza Mantaring said.

While financial stability is an important aspect so does a healthy life. This is why Sun Life launched SUN Fit and Well, a new generation wellness product that offers comprehensive life and health protection from childhood all the way to the golden years. While most products offer benefits only when an illness strikes, SUN Fit and Well covers the needs from prevention, to diagnosis, to treatment and all the way to rehabilitation.

For prevention, SUN Fit and Well provides access to GoWell, Sun Life's wellness program where members can enjoy special privileges that will help them keep mind and body fit. This includes easy access to health and wellness information, fitness and wellness events, nutrition and health experts, and more.

"Sun Life remains committed to helping Filipinos face a brighter tomorrow by being in the best of health," Mantaring added. "The results of the Asia Health Index reiterate the need to promote a healthier lifestyle, and Sun Life wants to be Filipinos' partner in pursuing this journey."

About SUN Life Financial

Sun Life Financial is a leading international financial services organization providing a diverse range of protection and wealth products and services to individuals and corporate customers. Sun Life Financial and its partners operates worldwide, including Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Hong Kong, the Philippines, Japan, Indonesia, India, China, Australia, Singapore, Malaysia, Vietnam and Bermuda. As of September 30, 2016, the Sun Life Financial group has total assets under management of CAD $908 Billion.